The decision over Harrison Armstrong’s immediate future will be defined what Everton manager David Moyes thinks is best for the teenager’s development.

The 19-year-old delivered what Moyes viewed as his best performance for the Everton first team as he helped an injury-hit side to an impressive 1-0 win at Premier League title chasers Aston Villa last weekend.

It was a display that suggested the midfielder is ready for the challenges of the top flight but, with players returning from injury, suspension and the Africa Cup of Nations, the Blues boss wants to ensure Armstrong spends as much of the second half of the campaign on the pitch as possible - something that may pave the way for a return to Preston North End.

The England youth international was recalled from his loan spell at Deepdale at...